Maryland State Parks will host First Day Hikes from December 31, 2025, through January 2, 2026, offering more than 50 outdoor events across the state as part of a nationwide initiative by America’s State Parks. The program encourages residents and visitors to start the new year with physical activity in nature.
Events include ranger-led hikes with set start times, many requiring pre-registration; self-guided hikes on marked trails with possible staff assistance at the beginning; and AllTrails-Guided options through a partnership with the AllTrails Public Lands Program, allowing users to navigate trails and share experiences on social media. Visitors can locate events near them on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website.
The tradition provides an opportunity to connect with the outdoors during the transition to a new year. Last year’s events drew more than 5,200 participants statewide despite windy and cold conditions.
New additions for 2026 feature several distinctive offerings. Calvert Cliffs State Park in Lusby will hold a 3.6-mile “Hike into the New Year!” ranger-led night hike starting at 10:30 p.m. on December 31, 2025, allowing participants to welcome the new year on the trail. In Southern Maryland, this park’s coastal location and fossil-rich cliffs make it a popular choice for evening exploration.
Janes Island State Park in Crisfield offers a “First Day Sunset” ranger-led hike concluding at the marina for views of the first sunset of 2026, followed by a campfire and hot cocoa. Tuckahoe State Park plans the “Ride and Shine 2026” bike ride on Anna’s Trail, and the “First Day Bike on the Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail” follows the historic Northern Central Railway corridor, providing alternatives to walking for those preferring cycling.
With January 1, 2026, marking the start of the nation’s 250th birthday commemoration, several hikes incorporate historical themes. Deep Creek Lake State Park presents the “Brant Mine Hike,” focusing on Garrett County history. North Point State Park in Edgemere offers the “Black Marsh” hike through the Black Marsh Wildlands, where participants can observe a landscape blending natural features with regional historical elements.
Participants at select locations can receive First Day Hike “I Hiked” stickers while supplies last. Those choosing independent routes on any trail within a Maryland State Park on January 1 are encouraged to document their adventure, including miles covered, and share details via the DNR website.
The First Day Hikes program began nationally in 2012 and has grown to include events in all 50 states. In Maryland, it spans every region, from mountainous western areas to tidal eastern shores and urban-adjacent parks near the Baltimore-Washington corridor. The variety accommodates different fitness levels, group sizes, and interests, with options for daytime, nighttime, guided, and independent experiences.
Southern Maryland residents benefit from proximity to several participating sites. Calvert Cliffs State Park, with its 1,000-plus acres along the Chesapeake Bay, combines hiking with opportunities to view fossils and wildlife. Janes Island State Park, accessible via water trails, emphasizes the unique environment of the Tangier Sound area. These locations draw local families, military personnel from nearby installations, and visitors from the Washington metropolitan region seeking accessible outdoor activities.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources promotes these events to encourage year-round park use, highlighting benefits such as improved physical health, mental well-being, and appreciation for the state’s natural and historical resources. Pre-registration for ranger-led hikes helps manage group sizes and ensures safety, particularly for night or specialized events.
Participants should prepare for winter conditions, including appropriate footwear, layered clothing, and hydration. Some trails may present challenges due to weather, so checking park-specific details in advance is recommended. The program aligns with broader state efforts to connect residents with public lands for recreation and education.
